Welcome to the Motorcycle Travel Guide for Croatia. Before you book a Croatia motorbike trip, be sure you read this comprehensive information! It has a ton of helpful information, some of the greatest roads, routes, and rides, and much more to ensure you enjoy the greatest Croatia bike trip imaginable.
Why do Motorcycles Travel in Croatia?
Many motorcycle riders in Europe have Croatia at the top of their list, and with good reason. Here are the four I think are best. The amazing roads are the first to mention. We’ve got gorgeous asphalt, infinity curves, and more curves! You’ll want to go faster as you chase the glittering shoreline on these winding, ideal roads.
The incredibly diverse scenery comes next. Rich green forests, stunning mountains, natural lakes, deep river canyons, and breathtaking vistas of the more than eight hundred islands dotted along the Adriatic coast are just a few of the many natural features that await you. With these stunning surroundings, motorcycle traveling across Croatia will be an absolute pleasure. History buffs will discover a multitude of information about our culture and history, including impressive castles from the Middle Ages, Greek and Roman-founded towns, stunning amphitheaters, cathedrals, and much more.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of culinary delights, since Croatian cuisine is Mediterranean-inspired but also regionally specific. If that’s not enough, there are also Croatia’s colorful and busy towns, wild nightlife, water sports, and coffee culture. Enjoy the beautiful weather, get a coffee, and sit by the water!
Documentation Required for Motorcyclists visiting Croatia
You must have your international driver’s license with you while traveling to any EU nation, especially if it wasn’t originally issued in English. Although it’s required by law, you won’t often be asked for an international license when driving. But having it is a good idea in case of an accident.
Visas :
No visa is needed for nationals of the UK or the EU. However, certain nationals will require a visa. You can visit Croatia’s Foreign Affairs website to verify the criteria for your country.
Insurance for motorbikes:
For any car registered in Europe, there is no need for supplementary or specialized insurance. Additionally, there are no additional documentation requirements for cars registered in Europe.
Highway tolls and Vignette :
As of this writing in 2022, a ticketing system manages the roadways. Just pick up a ticket upon entry, then pay with cash or a credit or debit card when exiting.
Ways for Motorcyclists to Enter and exit Croatia
Depending on your schedule, there are several border crossings to select from. Among the most common ones are the North’s Macelj and Goričan, the West’s Bregana and Rupa, and the East’s Bajakovo.
Border Crossing Between Bosnia and Dubrovnik
Since July 2022, the Pelješac Bridge has been in use, allowing it to avoid passing through Bosnian territory. That is to say, traveling from Dubrovnik to south Croatia does not require passing through Bosnia anymore.
Ferry from Italy to Croatia
Taking a ferry from Italy to Croatia is an additional alternative; the most popular port from Italy is Bari. Directferries.co.uk has the most recent sailing schedules and itineraries, so I suggest checking there first.
The average cost for Croatian Motorbike Tourism
Since the average fuel price is always changing as of this writing (2022), it is best to verify the cost at the time of the trip for an exact estimate.
Compared to most of our Western neighbors, food costs are lower here. A simple breakfast, including coffee, may be had at a nearby bakery for as little as two to three euros. Dinner costs almost the same as lunch, which is roughly ten euros. Once you’re on the shore, though, plan on adding 50% more to that.
Depending on the location, basic rooms and flats might cost between 40 and 70 euros per night. Breakfast is usually only provided in hotels and B&Bs; it is not served in most rooms or flats.
Security and safety in Croatia
I’m happy to report that Croatian safety is not an issue. However, when traveling, always employ common sense. When at all feasible, park your motorcycle in a garage, and make sure you are aware of where your wallet is. There’s nothing noteworthy to know other than that.
Though there are plenty of speed cameras in Croatia, you should first try using one of the smartphone applications or searching for speed cameras there online. Though some of our fixed cameras may capture images of the back, most of them are facing forward.
If a police officer catches you speeding or breaking another law, don’t be shocked if they advise you to pay cash to have a particular portion of your ticket discounted. You will be sent a receipt, and it is lawful. Therefore, if you have any cash on you, the fine might be divided in half.
Croatian Motorcycle Riding Conditions
Normal traffic laws are in effect. Generally, police may allow speeds up to 10 kph over the posted limit. Thus, you may go 60 if it’s 50. We provide a vast network of paved roads with breathtaking scenery, but if off-road or enduro riding is more your style, we also have plenty of off-road sections. There are a lot of rocks on our off-road routes, so make careful to examine the paths you want to take before going.
Equipment for Motorcycling in Croatia
This doesn’t call for any unique suggestions. The timing of your visit will determine everything. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing as it might get hot in the middle of June, July, August, and early September.
In the continental portion and in the mountains, spring and fall may be colder, so pack layers of clothing for riding, warm clothing, and rain gear. You will be penalized for not wearing a helmet, which is required.
See the Travel Gear Guides section for further information on tack, suggestions, and selecting your adventure riding gear.
The Top Motorbike Routes in Croatia
Planning a quick getaway won’t allow you to really enjoy Croatia. Some cyclists believe they can travel the coast route, cross the border in a few days, and then continue on their adventure, declaring they have seen Croatia. Of course, the shore is where Croatia is at its best, but there are so many incredible routes that will take you both there and other parts of the nation that you just must not miss. These are my top five routes, which I’m sure you’ll adore as well.
Dubrovnik to Zagreb
This one is based on one of our guided motorcycle tours in part, and it has been shown time and time again to be an incredible ride by our satisfied patrons. You can easily add more to it, which makes it a terrific option as well. Just be sure to give yourself at least 7-8 days, if not more.
Croatia’s continental region includes the nation’s capital, Zagreb. From that location, you may go by the renowned Plitvice lakes, Gračac, Knin, and Imotski, on the D1 route all the way down to Sinj. After Sinj, stay primarily in the interior as you head towards Dubrovnik. Some of the breathtaking spots along the trip are:
- In Rastoke, which is roughly 2.5 hours away from Zagreb, stop for a coffee.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park (it is strongly advised to stay overnight and do a 2-5 hour trek around the lakes).
- Proceed beyond Plitvice, across Korenica, and onto Bjelopolje. Take a left in the direction of Donji Lapac and Srb. There is a fantastic road that may be used instead of the D1.
- Take a slight detour to Raducic just before Knin if you’re hungry and want to stop at the Kod Pere restaurant for lamb. It’s a great neighborhood restaurant with excellent meals.
- Another fantastic viewpoint and lunch break option is Knin Fortress.
- After Knin, it takes 30 minutes to reach the Spring of Cetina River.
- See the crimson and blue lakes of Imotski.
- You may make a pit stop along the way at Opuzen to pick up some fresh produce farmed nearby.
- Ston has some of Croatia’s greatest oysters and a view of the wall that separates Mali Ston and Stone. At 5.5 kilometers (it was formerly 7 km long), it is the longest wall in Europe.
- Ride to Srđ mountain just before Dubrovnik for an amazing aerial view of Dubrovnik’s Old Town (beware, it’s a fairly small part with a few sharp hairpins).
- Here you are in Dubrovnik!
Dubrovnik to Zagreb
- Return to Ston and go on your cycling adventure over the Pelješac peninsula. Spend some time exploring the beaches and roads in that area. Together with Korčula and Vis, it is one of my favorite Croatian islands or peninsulas. Although you won’t get much distance out of any of the three due to their modest size, they all provide a fantastic combination of leisure and riding.
- You may take the recently constructed Pelješac bridge, which is a sight in and of itself, or take a ferry from Pelješac to Ploče.
- You have two choices (which I suggest you choose) after Ploče. On the mainland, you may continue riding to Biokovo Nature Park and reach the 1,762 meter-high Sv. Jure mountain (a strenuous trip that is not recommended for inexperienced riders). You may also get to Sućuraj on the island of Hvar via ferry from Drvenik. If you want to explore every road on Hvar, I suggest spending at least two days there (the finest is on the west portion of the island).
- You may see the well-known Dioklecian’s Palace in Split after taking the boat from Hvar.
- Traveling north on the route leads to Šibenik, from which a monotonous and level stretch of riding begins in the direction of Zadar. The coastal route on that section has speed cameras and heavy traffic (particularly during the summer months), so I suggest using some of the inland roads instead of the scenic ones.
- Once more, you have two choices (or even a circular ride if you have time) from Zadar: either take the Best Motorcycle Road in Croatia, known locally as “Magistrala,” also known as the Adriatic Coastal Road, or go around the island of Pag, which is a highly picturesque route with breathtaking vistas. Further details are provided below.
- That leads to Senj on your route to Croatia’s largest peninsula, the Istria peninsula. You’ll discover a particularly special route from Mošćenička Draga to Plomin, or Plominka as it’s commonly called, so budget two days for your visit. It’s most likely among the top five highways in Croatia.
- Once there, Pula’s Amphitheater, Rovinj, and Poreč for their stunning centers are must-see locations. Then there are a few smaller towns, all of which come highly recommended: Motovun, Buzet, Buje, and Grožnjan. The tiniest town in the world, Hum, is also located in Istria. Consider adding that one as a quick stop on your agenda as well.
- Remember to take a trip up to the Vojak viewpoint and Učka Nature Park while you’re in Istria. Once more, one of my favorite Croatian road segments.
- Avoid the freeway and instead travel the scenic D3 route on your way back to Zagreb. If you have more time, you could also return to Novi Vinodolski and ride a tiny, low-traffic route up the Velebit mountain to Bater, Breze, Jasenak, and Ogulin. From there, you may cycle through Duga Resa and return to the bustling, traffic-filled city of Zagreb. Once more, an exceptionally lovely route in Croatia.
Adriatic Coastal Road, D8
The Adriatic Coastal Road (D8) is without a doubt the most well-known route in Croatia for motorcycle tourists. Both the locals and all of their German, Austrian, Slovenian, and other neighboring visitors that come to Croatia often are enamored with it!
The most well-known section is between Maslenica Bridge in the south and Senj in the north, but if we’re being fussy, the nicest part is between Karlobag and Tribanj. Small, peaceful beaches, outstanding eateries, and breathtaking views of the coast and islands may all be found along the route. Since both paths provide fantastic riding and equally fantastic views, there is no advice on which way to go: north to south or vice versa. Here are some fantastic side excursions and detours to enjoy (just remember to return to the D8 route later).
You may go to Krasno via the route from Sveti Juraj. Around Velebit Mountain, the temperature is lower and the air is purer.
- From Prizna, take the boat to the island of Pag.
- You may bike up to Baške Oštarije from Karlobag. There’s better access to fresh air, delicious cheese from the area, and breathtaking coastal vistas.
Ride on the Pelješac Peninsula
Once you’ve had some rye oysters in Ston, ride by the Ston Salt plant (which you can also visit) towards Prapratno. From there, enjoy some stunning coastline riding in Žuljana, Trstenik, and Potomje. Travel via the Potomje tunnel and enjoy some twists and turns on the main route all the way to Orebić. Take the boat to Korčula Island and visit Korčula town if you have enough time before continuing on to Vela Luka on the other side. Look for the short, narrow path that leads to a stunning sight from Hum above Vela Luka.
(Dead End Road) Biokovo Nature Park
Anyone who likes cycling both mountains and the seashore should definitely check out this ride. The ride will ascend you to 1,762 meters above sea level, the summit of Sveti Jure. On a bright and sunny day, you can see all the way to Italy from that point.
Although there is a toll on the road, bikes only pay around 5 euros. About a half-ride to the top, a stunning glass observation deck was constructed a few years ago. There are several hairpins that grow tighter and smaller as you approach the summit, so be advised that this is a somewhat tricky route and not recommended for novice riders.
Top tips
- Be mindful of speed cameras, particularly while entering and leaving urban areas.
- Remember to bring flip flops and a swimsuit since you won’t be able to resist the beaches.
- If there is a long wait at the ferry terminals, feel free to skip it. Bikes always go ahead, so don’t worry.
- Set aside some time to try as much of the regional cuisine as you can.
- Prepare yourself for some amazing riding!
